Audi chief Mattia Binotto delivers a surprising verdict on Max Verstappen, insisting the German manufacturer cannot yet offer the four-time world champion a race-winning platform despite ongoing speculation over his Red Bull future
In a Formula 1 paddock where virtually every team would jump at the chance to sign Max Verstappen, Audi have taken a remarkably different stance.
The German manufacturer’s CEO and team principal, Mattia Binotto, has openly admitted that Audi are currently not in a position to providethe four-time world champion with the machinery required to fight for victories, effectively shutting down speculation linking Verstappen with the ambitious new project.
Speaking on the Beyond the Grid podcast, Binotto revealed that while Verstappen remains one of the most sought-after talents in Formula 1, Audi’s focus remains firmly on building a competitive foundation rather than chasing superstar signings.
Audi Take Realistic Approach
Speculation surrounding Max Verstappen has intensified throughout the 2026 season.
Although the Dutchman remains contracted to Red Bull Racing until the end of 2028, reports have repeatedly suggested that performance-related clauses in his contract could potentially allow him to explore other options should Red Bull fail to meet certain competitive targets.
With Verstappen currently sitting seventh in the drivers’ championship standings, rumours have naturally linked him with several rival teams, including Mercedes, Aston Martin and Audi.
However, Binotto made it clear that Audi are not actively pursuing the Dutch star.
> “No, we’re not doing that. I’m not involved,” Binotto explained. “The truth is, we aren’t ready yet. We need to offer him a proper platform – a setup where he can genuinely compete for wins.”
The comments represent a refreshingly candid assessment from the Audi boss, whose team has endured a challenging start to life as a full works operation.
Tough Reality for Audi
Audi entered Formula 1 with ambitious long-term objectives, but results have highlighted the scale of the challenge facing the German manufacturer.
The team has managed just two championship points so far this season, leaving them near the foot of the constructors’ standings and only marginally ahead of rivals such as Cadillac Formula 1 Team and Aston Martin Formula One Team.
While Audi’s long-term vision remains focused on becoming a championship contender, Binotto appears determined to avoid making headline-grabbing driver signings before the infrastructure and performance package are capable of matching those ambitions.
His comments suggest the team would rather establish a competitive car first and then attract elite talent, rather than risk bringing in a driver of Verstappen’s calibre without the tools necessary to challenge at the front.
Confidence in Current Drivers
Binotto also indicated satisfaction with Audi’s existing driver line-up, signalling that the team is committed to developing its current project rather than pursuing a disruptive blockbuster transfer.
That stance contrasts sharply with much of the paddock, where Verstappen’s future continues to dominate discussion amid Red Bull’s fluctuating fortunes.
Should Audi’s performance improve significantly over the coming seasons, the prospect of a Verstappen move could eventually return to the table. For now, however, Binotto believes the timing simply isn’t right.
What It Means for Verstappen
Audi’s position narrows one of the most talked-about destinations for Verstappen at a time when uncertainty continues to surround Red Bull’s competitive trajectory.
While the Dutchman remains one of Formula 1’s most valuable assets and a driver capable of transforming a team’s fortunes, Audi have effectively acknowledged that even a driver of his extraordinary talent cannot single-handedly accelerate their rebuilding process.
For now, Verstappen’s future remains one of the biggest stories in Formula 1, but Audi have made their position crystal clear: before chasing the sport’s biggest star, they must first build a car worthy of him.